May is National Bike Month — a celebration of two-wheeled transportation established by the League of American Bicyclists in 1956 to encourage cycling and exalt its benefits.
And May 21, specifically, is National Bike to Work Day. As can be inferred by the name, this date (always the third Friday in May) is set aside for both experienced cycling commuters and beginning bikers to pedal their way to work.
Cincinnati Metro, the Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK) and the Butler County Regional Transit Authority (BCRTA) are supporting this mission by offering free rides to those with bikes.
Riders who load their bicycles onto the provided racks will get free fare on any of these regional transit partners. According to a release, "The day will showcase just how easy it is to bike and ride every day."
All of the Metro, TANK and BCRTA buses come with a secure front-loading rack that can hold two bikes (bikes are not permitted on board any buses, unless they are foldable and can fit under a seat).
Not sure how to use the bike racks on the buses and don't want to be embarrassed attempting to secure yours? Both Metro and TANK offer guidance via their Bike & Ride programs.
Here's a video from Metro showing you how to load your bike:
And TANK has provided images for how to load and unload your bike:
BCRTA doesn't have anything on their site showing how to use their racks, but you can call 513-785-5237 with questions.
For more information on each transit authority and to find bus routes, visit their websites: go-metro.com, tankbus.org and butlercountyrta.com.
And for more local National Bike Month events, visit Queen City Bike.
